| Place | Oceania: Australia |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | REL36246 |
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Badge |
| Physical description | Brass, Enamelled metal |
| Maker |
Stokes & Sons, Melbourne |
| Place made | Australia: Victoria, Melbourne |
| Date made | c 1939-1945 |
| Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
Volunteer Air Observer Corps badge
Description
Circular badge of gold coloured metal, enamelled on the front with red, white and blue concentric circles with a central golden eagle. Printed on the blue enamel in gold is 'VOLUNTEER AIR OBSEVERS CORPS' and 'OBSERVER' on the white enamel. The reverse of the badge has number 8067 stamped with the moulded inscription of 'THIS BADGE IS THE PROPERTY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AIR' and the makers name 'STOKES'. It has a pin fastening moulded onto the reverse also.
History / Summary
Civilians trained to scan the skies for allied and enemy aircraft during the Second World War could become members of the Volunteer Air Observes Corps (VAOC) . The vigilance of the VAOC in populated areas, industrial sites and coastal sites was important for home front security